Japan : Kyoto

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Where To?

Kyoto

EXPLORE

sacred shrines, bustling markets, traditional Gion streets, and the endless bamboo of Arashiyama Grove

CONNECT

with Zen Buddhist monks, groundbreaking artists, city planners and the creators and innovators in the gaming and tech sectors

LEARN

the art of intricate precision in traditional tea ceremonies, geisha performances, and artisanal workshops

A group of people walking through the iconic red torii gates at the Fushimi Inari Shrine in Kyoto, Japan.

Why Kyoto

Steeped in the hues of cherry blossoms and alive with the hush of ancient temples, Kyoto is a living testament to Japanese tradition. Narrow alleyways and imperial castles reverberate with the memory of samurai, geishas, and emperors alike. Here, the past and present merge seamlessly, offering an unparalleled journey through time and a chance to encounter the soul of Japan.

Japan 2024_ Beautifully arranged kaiseki meal in Kyoto featuring fresh vegetables and delicate seasonal ingredients.

Only with MO/AD

Our profound immersion will encompass ancient rituals—tea ceremonies and wellness practices that span centuries—and afford us opportunities to engage with local monks, thinkers and artisans who propel the culture today. We’ll also experience the height of Japanese cuisine culture—from Michelin-starred restaurants to exquisite kaiseki meals prepared by the pioneers of New Kyoto cuisine.

Where We Sleep

We blend the luxurious, modern world with ryokan-style rooms of tatami mats and sliding doors. And it all comes with a restoring dose of Japanese shibui, that notion of striking a peaceful harmony with nature.

Kyoto

Our Kyoto hillside retreat is a gem of modernist and traditional architecture. Tranquil rooms graced with local cypress give way to garden views tucked away from the bustling Higashiyama streets.

“
Unique access to people and places. This was a trip we could not have done without Modern Adventure.
Scott F.
“
Every person involved with leading and guiding was top notch—friendly, knowledgeable, fun, kind—it doesn’t get better.
Elizabeth Z.
“
EVERY PERSON in our group was SUPER AWESOME!
Jennifer M.
Kyoto 2023_ A geisha performing a traditional dance in a Kyoto teahouse, reflecting the city’s timeless culture and artistry.
Kyoto 2023_ A visitor enters a traditional machiya townhouse in Kyoto’s historic district, showcasing classic Japanese architecture and charm.
Kyoto 2023_ A peaceful moment along the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto, where lush greenery and calm waters create a serene escape.
Kyoto 2023_ A geisha pours sake for a guest in a traditional Kyoto teahouse, offering a glimpse into Japan’s refined hospitality and culture.
Kyoto 2023_ Vibrant strings of folded origami cranes hanging at a Kyoto shrine, symbolizing peace, hope, and good fortune.
Kyoto 2023_ Traditional Japanese tea ceremony in a tatami room, featuring matcha preparation and the art of mindful hospitality.
Kyoto 2023_ A colorful koi fish glides beneath ferns in a tranquil Kyoto garden pond, reflecting harmony and natural beauty.
Kyoto 2023_ A traditional wooden house surrounded by blooming gardens in Kyoto, capturing the elegance of Japanese architecture and nature.
Kyoto 2023_ A delicate bowl of bamboo shoot rice served in Kyoto, highlighting the artistry and seasonality of Japanese cuisine.
Kyoto 2023_ A Zen monk stands peacefully in a Kyoto temple garden, surrounded by lush greenery and traditional architecture.
Kyoto 2023_ A moss-covered stone lantern surrounded by vibrant plants in a tranquil Kyoto garden, reflecting traditional Japanese design and serenity.
Kyoto 2023_ A warm evening view inside a renovated machiya restaurant in Kyoto, blending traditional charm with modern dining ambiance.
Kyoto 2023_ A steaming hot pot filled with fresh vegetables and tofu being served, showcasing Kyoto’s warm and communal dining traditions.
Kyoto 2023_ A peaceful walkway leading to a traditional temple surrounded by lush greenery in Kyoto, Japan.
Japan 2023_Close-up of hands holding a ceramic bowl of freshly whisked matcha tea in Kyoto, symbolizing the calm and ritual of the traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Kyoto 2023_ Traditional Japanese home entrance with tatami seating, ceramic jars, and woven baskets in Kyoto.
Kyoto 2023_ Collection of handcrafted ceramic bowls and cups showcasing traditional Japanese pottery craftsmanship.
Kyoto 2023_ Woman practicing ikebana flower arranging on a wooden veranda surrounded by a peaceful Japanese garden.
Kyoto 2023_ Hands arranging cherry blossom branches during an ikebana flower workshop in a traditional Japanese tatami room.
Kyoto 2023_ Participants sharing a traditional Buddhist meal in a serene tatami room, guided by a monk in Kyoto.
Japan 2023_Elegant kaiseki-style dish served in Kyoto with seasonal vegetables, fish, and seaweed arranged on a rustic ceramic plate, showcasing refined Japanese dining culture.
Kyoto 2023_ Peaceful view of a traditional Japanese garden from a wooden veranda, surrounded by maple trees and stone lanterns.
Kyoto 2023_ Elegant kaiseki meal featuring seasonal vegetables and artfully arranged small dishes, part of traditional Japanese fine dining.

Frequently Asked Questions

  1. Where can I go?

    Anywhere! Our private travel experiences are designed to take you wherever your wanderlust leads. Whether you dream of exploring remote, hidden gems or iconic destinations, we craft personalized journeys that go beyond traditional travel, offering meaningful and enriching experiences that connect you with the world in a deeper way.

  2. How many people is private travel suitable for?

    Our journeys are thoughtfully curated to suit any group size, from adventurous solo escapes to romantic getaways for two, or multigenerational celebrations. We believe travel should be accessible to all, tailored to create moments that become cherished memories.

  3. How does private travel work?

    Your adventure begins with us getting to know you—your travel dreams, style, and goals. From there, we take care of all logistics, planning, and communication to ensure a seamless experience. It’s a collaborative process: your ideas guide the journey as we weave them together with our expertise, local insights, and dedication to creating a travel experience that aligns with your vision.

  4. What services are typically included?

    We deliver a full-spectrum experience, from white-glove support during the planning phase to curating day-to-day itineraries, offering local insights, and providing 24/7 on-call assistance. It’s not just about logistics; it’s about curating meaningful experiences, leveraging our strong local connections, and adding personalized touches to make your trip truly exceptional.

  5. How far in advance should I plan private travel?

    We are here to create your adventure, whether it’s a spontaneous getaway or a dream trip planned years in advance. For holiday travel or peak seasons, early planning is recommended to secure the most sought-after accommodations. Our strong relationships with boutique and luxury hotels ensure access to some of the world’s most exclusive stays.

  6. What activities do you offer?

    Modern Adventure believes that travel is a force for good, and our activities reflect it. We specialize in curating authentic, immersive experiences tailored to your unique interests. Our extensive network allows us to connect you with pioneers of global initiatives, cultural movements, and exclusive opportunities, ensuring that each journey goes beyond sightseeing to provide meaningful engagement with the destination.

  7. How much will private travel cost?

    We design bespoke travel experiences that align with a variety of budgets while maintaining a high standard of personalization and care. Our luxury experiences typically include accommodations, private airport transfers, curated excursions, private guides, VIP access, and select meals. These bespoke journeys generally range from $1,000 to $3,000 per person, per day, depending on destination, season, group size, and chosen activities.

  8. What's not included?

    Round-trip airfare to and from your destination, travel insurance, hotel incidentals, and any activities and meals not outlined in the itinerary are not included. We provide clear guidance on what’s covered so you know exactly what to expect.

  9. What deposits are required?

    Once we discuss your interests, travel style, dates, and budget, we present initial ideas to spark excitement. To proceed with a detailed travel plan, we require a $500 planning fee. To confirm your bespoke itinerary and secure accommodations, a 50% deposit is needed, with the remaining balance due 60 days before travel.